Why Arch Support Matters

It’s easy to forget just how much stress your feet are put under every day. Many people don’t realize they actually put 60 tons of stress on their feet for every mile they walk!

All components of the feet support this weight to some degree. However, the arch absorbs most of the pressure. That’s why arch support is so important. If you don’t take steps (no pun intended) to provide your arches with adequate support, you may be at greater risk of developing a range of musculoskeletal conditions. Some may even result in disability in the long run.

That doesn’t need to happen. The following guide will help you better understand why your arch may not be getting proper support, and what you can do to correct the problem.

Understanding Arch Shape

Arches come in different shapes and sizes. Additionally, the shape of your arch can change over time for a number of different reasons. For example, it’s no secret that pregnant women carry much more weight than their bodies are accustomed to. This can result in a flattening of the arch. There’s even evidence to suggest that pregnancy can result in permanent changes to the size of a woman’s feet. That’s why experts recommend that pregnant women prioritize wearing comfortable footwear whenever possible. They need to provide adequate shock absorption to reduce the impact of pregnancy on the arch.

It’s also worth noting that age can cause changes in arch shape and size. This may be due to such factors as increased fluid retention and the natural effects of carrying around bodyweight for years. Of course, if arch problems are causing you significant discomfort for any reason, you should also consult with a doctor. They’ll determine if treatment is necessary.

Lack of Arch Support Causes Problems

If you have a low arch, you may overpronate. This means every time you take a step, your foot rolls too far inward. If you have a high arch, your foot may roll too far outward. This is known as underpronation.

Both problems are caused by lack of proper arch support. Unfortunately, both underpronation and overpronation cause the knees and hips to come out of alignment. This results in added pressure on knees, back, thighs, and various other areas. It can also lead to such problems as muscle injury, lower back pain, ankle injuries, and a range of other conditions you’d like to avoid.

Again, avoiding these conditions is easy. You simply need to choose footwear that provides sufficient arch support. 

You rely on your feet every day. Make sure you’re doing what you can to protect them.